Sun, Surf, and a Hidden Cascade: Quimixto & Los Arcos by Boat
A half-day escape from Puerto Vallarta: reefs, a jungle walk, and a seasonal waterfall
The morning smells of diesel and salt, and the city of Puerto Vallarta slinks into the rearview—miles of corrugated red roofs and palm shadows shrinking as the motor hums and the bay opens. By the time the boat rounds the first headland, the water has a different vocabulary: a bright, shimmery conversation of currents and light. Los Arcos appear like punctuation marks off the coast—two or three basalt ribs rising out of Banderas Bay—and the captain eases the boat alongside them so you can see the patterns carved by waves and time. A little later you trade the hull for a narrower skiff, hop off at a quiet cove and, depending on the season, follow a narrow jungle track that ends at a 33-foot waterfall that drops like a hinge in the mountains.
Trail Wisdom
Go Early
Morning departures usually mean calmer seas and better visibility for snorkeling.
Bring Cash
Horse rentals and small village purchases are typically cash-only—bring pesos.
Wear Water Shoes
Rocky beach landings and reef snorkeling are much more comfortable and safer with sturdy water shoes.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect coral and marine life—apply before boarding and reapply as needed with biodegradable options.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Boca de Tomatlán beach for a quieter launch point and local seafood palapas
- •The small tide pools around the base of Los Arcos at low tide—rich with juvenile fish and brittle stars
Wildlife
Green/Olive Ridley Turtles, Tropical reef fish such as sergeant majors and parrotfish
Conservation Note
Los Arcos and surrounding reefs are ecologically sensitive—support operators who enforce no-touch rules for coral, use reef-safe products, and limit disturbance to nesting beaches.
Banderas Bay has long supported fishing communities; Puerto Vallarta’s southern coast blends indigenous and colonial histories with a modern tourism economy that took off in the 1960s.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Dry trails, Calmer seas, Wildflower blooms
Challenges: Increasing crowds, Warmer midday temperatures
Spring (March–May) is dry with pleasant mornings and clearer snorkeling; trails are generally firm and the waterfall may be reduced before the rainy season.
summer
Best for: Lush jungle, Full waterfall, Warm water snorkeling
Challenges: Higher chance of rain storms, Slippery trails after downpours
Summer brings heavy rains that turn the waterfall into a showpiece but can make trails muddy; expect afternoon storms and humidity.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Warmer water, Birding during migration
Challenges: Residual wet trails, Variable boat conditions early in season
Fall can strike a balance between lush scenery and manageable weather; late fall reduces rain frequency as the season ends.
winter
Best for: Calm seas, Clear visibility, Comfortable hiking temps
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Peak tourist season around holidays
Winter (dry season) offers the most reliable conditions for snorkeling and hiking—expect cooler mornings and ocean clarity at its best.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky beach landings and gives traction on wet trails.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the marine environment—apply before boarding.
Light dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, keys, and a light layer safe from spray during boat transfers.
Hydration pack or water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated on the hike and under the sun; refill options are limited in small villages.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to the waterfall?
The trail is roughly 1 km (0.6 mi) each way with about 70–100 m (230–330 ft) of elevation gain; expect a 20–40 minute walk depending on pace and stops.
Are horses safe and how much do they cost?
Horses are available locally for an extra fee paid in cash; safety standards can vary—ask the operator about saddle condition and rider ability before boarding.
Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?
No—snorkeling at Los Arcos is suitable for beginners with buoyancy aids and in-water guidance from the crew; however, basic swimming comfort is required.
Is food provided on the tour?
The tour may include light snacks or a short beach meal depending on the operator; plan to bring cash for full meals, drinks, or extras at village palapas.
What should I do if seas are rough?
Operators monitor conditions and may reschedule or reroute; if you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication beforehand and sit mid-boat for a smoother ride.
Is this trip family friendly?
Yes—families with older children and confident swimmers will find this accessible; discuss any concerns with the operator when booking.
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen (protects coral & skin), Water shoes (for reef and rocky landings), Cash in pesos (for horses, tips, village purchases), Lightweight rain jacket (summer showers can be sudden)
Did You Know
Los Arcos is a well-known marine area in Banderas Bay celebrated for snorkeling and biodiversity; the nearby reefs support nationally important marine life.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning slot for calmer seas; bring small bills in pesos; apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding; confirm horse availability and cash price ahead of time
Local Flavor
After the trip, head back to Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón for fresh ceviche or try a palapa in Boca de Tomatlán for grilled snapper and a cold beer—small coastal kitchens here serve the day’s catch simply and well.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Puerto Vallarta International (PVR) • Typical meeting point: Marina in Puerto Vallarta or Boca de Tomatlán • Driving: 20–40 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta to common launch points • Cell service: Good near Puerto Vallarta; intermittent near Quimixto • Permits: None required for day tours, but support licensed guides
Sustainability Note
Avoid single-use plastics, use reef-safe sunscreen, respect local wildlife and nesting beaches; book operators who practice responsible anchoring to protect coral.